Pre-Columbian Veracruz Volcanic Stone Canine Palma (ca. 600-1100 CE). Measures 7.5??H x 5??L x 5.125??W. A rare stone palma or palmate stone, carved from volcanic stone in the form of an defensive dog, with an expressive countenance comprised of round eyes, a prominent snout, and front paws. Palmas (Spanish for ‘palm frond’) were either held in place by hand or attached to the front of a stone yoke that was in turn attached the hips as part of the Mayan ballgame uniform. During the ballgame, players donned little more than strategically placed protective gear. This game was fast and furious, played with a very heavy (and sometimes lethal) ball. The uniform was created to protect the player, yet simultaneously allow for rapid, nimble movements. Provenance: ex-Artemis Gallery, ex-collection of the late Alfred E. Stendahl, displayed in Stendahl Art Galleries in Los Angeles (operated 1913-2017).